A Creative Washoku Spot Welcoming to the LGBTQ+ Community

"KANVA" (read as Kanba)

address
B1F Nakagawa Building, 3-8-5 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Nearest Station
Shinjuku-Sanchome station 1 min. walk
Payment Information
Cash, PayPay
SNS
Wi-Fi
Available

"KANVA," bathed in soft lighting, offers a calm oasis just steps from bustling Shinjuku. Its ever-changing seasonal menu keeps regulars coming back for more. Located near Shinjuku Ni-chome, Tokyo's most famous LGBTQ+ district, it has earned a loyal following for its inclusive vibe. With reasonable prices and warm hospitality, it feels like dining at a close friend’s home.

SHARE

X (Twitter) Share on Threads Facebook line

A calm space for enjoying creative seasonal washoku

Using fresh, seasonal ingredients—many sourced from the owner’s hometown of Tamba in Hyogo Prefecture—KANVA presents a menu rooted in traditional Japanese cuisine but infused with global flavors and techniques.Dishes feature spices and herbs from around the world, reflecting the chef’s dedication to crafting unique flavors.Casually stacked tableware and gentle indirect lighting add charm to the counter seating, while table seating is available for groups.

KANVA is just steps away from Shinjuku-sanchome Station, tucked into a dining alleyway. A sign marks the staircase leading down to the underground entrance.

A customer favorite is the “Crispy Salted Free-Range Chicken with Meyer Lemon” (¥1,200).The Meyer lemon, known for its subtle sweetness and hint of orange, is squeezed generously over the chicken.

The off-menu “Hana-chan Curry” (¥1,000) is a nostalgic childhood dish from staff member Hana’s family.Topped with a raw egg and a rich, savory Japanese-style sauce, it’s a comforting favorite among those in the know.

The staff are LGBTQ+ friendly, too

What makes KANVA a truly safe space for sexual minorities is its fully LGBTQ+-friendly staff."Mama" Yamochi creates a homey, welcoming vibe that keeps regulars coming back.In Shinjuku Ni-chome, it's common to affectionately call the owner or manager "Mama," regardless of gender.

"Mama" Yamochi, known and loved for his gentle smile.

Colorful bento boxes available by reservation

KANVA’s beautifully arranged bento boxes feature over 20 ingredients and are especially popular among regulars.Advance reservations are required, and orders can be placed via Instagram DM.

Photo: Kawatani Shohei / Text: Nakazato Kotetsu

The information contained this article was correct as of 04/21/2025 (the time of publication)